Apple co-founder Steve Jobs has died at the age of 56.
The former Apple CEO, who was the brains behind the iPhone, iPad, iPod, iMac and iTunes, has passed away after losing his battle with a rare form of pancreatic cancer.
Jobs, who along with childhood pal Steve Wozniak started the revolutionary company in 1976 in his parents’ garage, was diagnosed with the disease in 2004 and later received a liver transplant in 2009 in a bid to combat the illness.
He had previously stepped down as Apple’s CEO in August, when his health continued to deteriorate over years.
Addressing his death, a statement on Apple.com read: “Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being.”
It continued: “Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know and work with Steve have lost a dear friend and an inspiring mentor. Steve leaves behind a company that only he could have built, and his spirit will forever be the foundation of Apple.”
His family also stated: “Steve died peacefully today surrounded by his family. In his public life, Steve was known as a visionary; in his private life, he cherished his family.”
“We are thankful to the many people who have shared their wishes and prayers during the last year of Steve’s illness; a website will be provided for those who wish to offer tributes and memories.
They added: “We are grateful for the support and kindness of those who share our feelings for Steve. We know many of you will mourn with us, and we ask that you respect our privacy during our time of grief.”
US president Barack Obama has since paid tribute to Jobs, saying in a statement: “Steve was among the greatest of American innovators — brave enough to think differently, bold enough to believe he could change the world, and talented enough to do it,”
“By building one of the planet’s most successful companies from his garage, he exemplified the spirit of American ingenuity. By making computers personal and putting the internet in our pockets, he made the information revolution not only accessible, but intuitive and fun.
The president added: “And by turning his talents to storytelling, he has brought joy to millions of children and grownups alike. … The world has lost a visionary.”
Our thoughts go out to Steve’s family and friends at this sad time.